3 Highlights:
• Vistas from the top of the climbs
• Lunch break with a tent-drying session
• Nature’s treats: New Mexico pine nuts
Daily Summary:
• Distance hiked: 42 km
• Starting point: Aragon Well
• Ending point: Gila ~163 km
• Weather conditions: Sunny but chilly
Reflections (Challenges, Insights, Musings):
The day started with a classic cold wake-up—nothing like semi-moist sleeping bags to kick things off. Then it was off to the Aragon Well to get water, which, naturally, was freezing. Took me 45 minutes to warm up afterward—perfect way to start the morning, right?
The day was all about climbing—1600 meters of elevation gain. It was brutal but the views from the top? I mean, they were worth it… probably. Saw some deer, squirrels, and 70 even spotted a coyote. It was like a mini nature documentary, with me starring as the exhausted hiker.
We met a few hunters along the way, plus a ranch owner, which made things a little more interesting. But the real kicker came during the second half of the day when my left calf cramped up out of nowhere. I looked like one of those wind-up toys, hobbling down the trail, hoping it would stop. It didn’t.
Anyway, I’m beyond tired. Going to call it a night and hope tomorrow doesn’t hit me with more surprise leg cramps.
Good night.
